TANKAI METHOD

In a remarkable initiative to revive and preserve the 2000-year-old technique of shipbuilding known as the ‘stitched shipbuilding method (Tankai method)’, the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Navy have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

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Context: In a remarkable initiative to revive and preserve the 2000-year-old technique of shipbuilding known as the ‘stitched shipbuilding method (Tankai method)’, the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Navy have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Key Points

The stitched ship holds significant cultural value in India, given its historical importance and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
Throughout history, India has had a strong maritime tradition, and the use of stitched ships played a vital role in trade, cultural exchange, and exploration.
These ships, constructed by stitching wooden planks together rather than using nails, offered flexibility and durability, making them less susceptible to damage from shoals and sandbars.
Although the arrival of European ships led to a shift in shipbuilding techniques, the art of stitching ships has survived in a few coastal regions of India, primarily for small local fishing boats.
The project aims to leverage the expertise of the remaining traditional shipwrights in India and showcase their exceptional craftsmanship.
It aims to revive the maritime memory and instill a sense of pride in India's rich maritime heritage among its citizens.
Additionally, it aims to promote cultural memories among the Indian Ocean littoral countries